ABSTRACT
This study aimed to describe the frequency of children at high risk of developing ADHD and its association with psychosocial factors in children of grade 3-5 in various schools of Karachi. Descriptive study. This study was coducted in various schools of Karachi from January to June 2008. This study was done using pre-tested self administered questionnaire. The study population was composed of 553 children from grades 3 to 5. The parents filled the questionnaire on assessment of children behavior. All ethical considerations were taken into account in this regard. Data for demographic variables for frequencies and association between variables was analyzed on SPSS version 12.0. Significant level was p<0.05. Among a total of 553 children from three different schools, the suspected children were 131; among them 111 had a score of 20-29 on the behavior rating scale and 20 had a score of 30 and onwards. There were 89 males out of 319 [27.8%] and 42 females out of 234 females [17.9%] who were found positive. This made a total 23.6% students of both the genders who showed strong tendency towards ADHD. Among the differences which were observed gender, father's occupation and different schools were statistically significant [p-value <0.05] which made the strength of this study. Children with ADHD are frequently encountered in the primary care setting. It is important that the diagnosis of this condition by primary care providers be based on procedures supported by evidence from empirical investigations. Clinicians should use ADHD-specific rating scales completed by caregivers and teachers in their efforts to identify children suspected for ADHD
ABSTRACT
To determine attitude of people towards opting a treatment modality for mental illnesses and factors affecting it in Psychiatric Outpatient department at Hamdard University Hospital, Karachi. Cross-sectional study. This study was carried out at Psychiatric Outpatient department at Hamdard University Hospital, Karachi from 1[st] January 2008 to 31[st] May 2009. Patients/ caregivers presenting at Psychiatric OPD of Hamdard University Hospital, Karachi from 1[st] January 2008 to 31[st] May 2009 were interviewed according to a standard questionnaire. Consent was taken from each and every patient/caregivers. Data was analyzed using SPSS 16 version. The study comprised 531 patients of which 42.4% were males and 57.6% females. Mean age was found to be 32.1 years [S.D= +/- 12.1]. Regarding mode of treatment opted first, 64.4% resorted to medical treatments while 28.8% used spiritual forms of treatment. 33.9% patients said that they consulted family physician for their problem first. 37.3% consulted a psychiatrist first followed by 18.7% who consulted various moulvis, Aalims and peers. Other forms of traditional healers consulted include hakims [6.8%] and homeopaths [3.4%]. Only 17.1% patients said that they had psychiatric treatment alone. 65.7% thought Rohani ilaaj to be part of religion or both religion and culture. And only 12% thought that Rohani Ilaaj has no role in treatment of mental illnesses. Strong belief still exists in traditional healing in our society. Although psychiatric treatment is becoming increasingly popular and acceptable, work needs to be done to increase awareness
ABSTRACT
Gender identity disorder is rarely reported in Pakistan. One such case is being described which is fitting into the typical diagnostic criteria of the said disorder. Dilemma remains about the decision of surgical reassignment and its associated complications